The plan was to keep top stars like Jamie Roberts and Dan Lydiate, both instrumental in this year’s RBS 6 Nations Grand Slam, in Wales however it appears the four regions have rejected the proposal.

"The recent debate, if you can call it that, about player salaries and soundbite solutions has been untimely, misinformed and damaging.” Lewis said.

“That offer was not accepted by the regions. That is their contractual right and I respect it.”

The £6.2million the WRU currently give the regions for releasing their Welsh Internationals was to be part of a £15million package from the governing body funding the contracts.

Since the Union introduced a £3.5m annual salary cap in recent years, the appeal of higher contracts in France and England has left the four regions with little choice but to let their stars go.

Mike Phillips, James Hook, Gethin Jenkins, and Luke Charteris are among those to have already moved to France.

While Starlets George North, Alex Cuthbert and Lydiate are also believed to be targets for the top French sides.

Ex-Ospreys boss Mike Cuddy has entered the debate saying the national/regional environment and relationship is not what it should be.

He added: "Sometimes, it's like Wales has five regions rather than four with the national team at the top of the Welsh rugby pyramid, more competitor than friend, role model, mentor or father figure."